The Lone Star State's geoscience community takes a new shape as Governor Greg Abbott solidifies the leadership of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists. In a recent press release, Gov. Abbott entrusted Mark Varhaug with the chairman role, adding Eric Anderson, Ph.D., Rusty Branch, P.G., and Jeremy Ransom to the board. All appointees are queued to hold their positions until February 1, 2031.
Hailing from Dallas, the new chair Mark Varhaug brings over four decades of geology expertise to the table, as stated in the Office of the Texas Governor's official announcement. His affiliation with multiple geological societies and a history of service on the board since 2018 reflect the depth of his commitment. Primarily involved with Beacon Hill Energy, Varhaug's education was rooted at Southern Methodist University, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Geology.
Joining him on the board, Dr. Eric Anderson of Hallsville carries the environmental science flag, owning credentials in soil science and leadership roles across professional and community groups. "Anderson received a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and a Master of Science in Forestry from Stephen F. Austin State University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Soil Science from North Carolina State University," the Office of the Texas Governor news release reveals. His work with Mitigation Resources of North America signals a broad perspective on ecological matters.
Fort Worth's Rusty Branch, on the other hand, bears the flag of geoscience and bio-diverse expertise. Being the vice president and senior geoscientist at Gehrig, Inc., Branch's board certification and involvement in community organizations lay down his qualifications. Garnering educational acclaim, Branch equipped himself with a Bachelor of Science in Earth Science from Tarleton State University, further embellishing his academic credentials with a Master of Business Administration from The University of Texas at Arlington and a Master of Science in Biology from Baylor University.
Last but not least, Jeremy Ransom from Georgetown will take his place at the board's table. As a strategic relationship director at Bluespring Wealth Partners, Ransom transcends the military discipline, having been Honorably Discharged from the United States Marine Corps. According to the Office of the Texas Governor press release, "Ransom received a Bachelor of Science in Personal Financial Planning from Texas Tech University, a Master of Business Administration from Baylor University, Master of Science in Technology Commercialization from UT Austin, and a Juris Doctor from the Mitchell Hamline School of Law." His past service on nonprofit boards like Hospice Austin testifies to his community commitment.
These appointments emerge under Texas governance, with the geoscientist board responsible for setting various fees related to the profession, including application, examination, licensure, and renewal—anchors in the operational and regulatory framework of Texas's geoscience landscape.
